WWhen you think of Monte Casino, extravagant lights, noisy slot machines, incredible architecture resembling the streets of Italy or high-end restaurants serving the finest cuisine come to mind. However, there’s special more to this Fourways attraction – the Monte Casino Bird Garden.

Consider it a bird oasis in the urban jungle, and “the only bird park of its kind in Africa”. With over 100 unique and exotic bird species, reptiles, and small animals that range from pelicans and flamingos to iguanas and antelope, you’ll definitely get an eyeful of these magnificent creatures from the elevated wooden walkways overlooking the aviaries.

You don’t have to be an avid bird-watcher to appreciate the Monte Casino Bird Gardens – there’s plenty highlights to see besides the colourful (and occasionally noisy), feathered friends. Take a leisurely stroll through the amazing gardens that boast “the largest, most diverse private collection of South African Cycads in the world” or settle down for lunch at the Flamingo Café and appreciate the sights and sounds around you.

Did You Know?

TThere are over 500 plants from 37 species in the gardens, including the middelburgensis plant, which is said to be one of the oldest surviving plants

LLet’s not forget about the kids, after all – parents occasionally seek out that next best hangout to entertain the little ones in and around Johannesburg, and this bird sanctuary has just the thing – an educational and entertaining bird show. The 40-minute show is between 11:00 and 15:00 on weekdays and 13:00 and 15:00 on weekends and public holidays.

Montecasino Bird Garden, Gauteng

SSo next time you’re in Fourways, make a note of visiting the Monte Casino Bird Gardens. There’s a possibility that you might not strike it lucky at the casino, but you’re bound to win over the family when they explore this incredible bird sanctuary.